From deadlines to Deutschland, Germany’s all-new ‘Freelance Visa’ is a blessing for remote employees. If the idea of freelancing amidst storybook castles, historic museums, vibrant city life, and grand annual festivals appeals to you, this visa is for you. Also called the Freiberufler visa, it applies to all non-EU residents, including Indians, who are self-employed.
Also, check out our guide to the most compelling things to do in Germany.
Germany’s ‘Freelance Visa’: All you need to know
Initially granted for one year, Germany’s Freelance Visa can be extended to three years, and may be renewed further, if the candidate continues to meet the eligibility criteria. After five years of continuous residence in Germany, and upon displaying language proficiency and adequate financial means, the freelancer can also apply for permanent residency.
Find out if you’re eligible for the German Freelance Visa
According to a report by the German Missions in India, Section 18 of the German Income Tax Act (Einkommensteuergesetz), freelance employment includes the following:
- Independent scientists
- Artists
- Those employed in literary, teaching or educational work
- Independent doctors, dentists, and veterinarians
- Lawyers
- Notaries
- Patent agents
- Surveyors
- Engineers
- Architects
- Commercial chemists
- Accountants
- Tax consultants
- Consulting economists
- Sworn accountants
- Tax agents
- Non-medical practitioners
- Physiotherapists
- Journalists
- Photojournalists
- Interpreters
- Translators
- Pilots and other similar professions
Documentation required for the Freelance Visa:
- A valid passport, issued within the last 10 years, with at least two empty pages. Passports with observations on the front data page will not be accepted.
- Application form and declaration, filled following Section 54 of the Residence Act, and duly signed.
- A declaration carrying the additional contact and legal representation is also mandated, as well as an A4-sized copy of the applicant’s passport data page.
- A detailed description of the candidate’s planned freelance employment, along with fee contracts and/or letters of intent. Proof of available capital and revenue forecast is also required.
- The applicant’s curriculum vitae.
- Degree from a state or state-recognised higher education institute or comparable training institution in Germany.
- Proof of qualification, such as a university degree, experience certificate, reference letters, and training certificate.
- Proof of business contacts in relevant professional fields in Germany/Europe, along with a rental contract, if already concluded.
- Proof of secure means of subsistence for at least one year.
- A valid health insurance.
- Applicants who are 45 years or older must provide evidence of adequate retirement benefits (e.g., an offer from a private pension or life insurer, ownership of assets, acquired pension rights, or operating assets). By the age of 67, applicants must have either a monthly pension of EUR 1,280.06 (INR 1,27,737.19), payable for at least 12 years, or assets totalling EUR 187,682 (INR 1,87,28,786.78).
- Passport-size pictures, not older than six months.
- A visa fee of EUR 75 (approximately INR 7,486).
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How to apply
The application process for the German Freelance Visa for non-EU/EEA residents involves the following steps:
- Complete the National D Visa application form with accurate information.
- Schedule an appointment with the German consulate or embassy in your country and submit your application.
- Ensure that you check the language in which the documents are required to be submitted. After obtaining all the necessary documents, visit the embassy or consulate to submit your application. Your biometric data will also be submitted at this point.
- The National D visa will be valid for three to six months.
- Upon arriving in Germany, you must register your address within two weeks of arrival. After this, visit the local Foreigners’ Office to apply for your residence permit as a self-employed or freelance person.
(Feature image credit: Federico Orlandi/Pexels)
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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Source: Live And Work In Germany For A Year With This New Freelance Visa
